Audi A1 DPF Issues: Power Loss and Smoke Signals

I had a similar issue with my Audi A3 diesel from 2 years newer than yours. Based on some experience with diesel engines, I can share what happened. The symptoms you describe match exactly what I experienced, reduced power, smoke, and poor fuel efficiency. My exhaust system showed similar issues, and the engine warning light came on due to a sensor fault related to the differential pressure. After taking it to the workshop, they confirmed the diesel filter was beyond cleaning. They performed a diagnostic test which showed the backpressure was way too high. The DPF had to be completely replaced, costing 1550 Euro including labor. Since the replacement, fuel efficiency returned to normal and the engine runs perfectly. To help more specifically with your case, could you share: Build year of your A1, Current mileage, Do you mainly do city or highway driving, Any warning lights on the dashboard, Have you tried any DPF regeneration cycles This information would help determine if your situation might need the same solution or if cleaning could still work. If your driving pattern is mostly short trips, this could have contributed to the DPF clogging up. Regular longer drives at higher RPMs can help prevent these issues.

I had my last vehicle inspection and service just 2500km ago, at 61000km. The mechanic did warn me about potential DPF issues due to my short commutes, but I ignored the advice to do regular highway runs. The sensor fault you mentioned matches my situation, my engine light started flashing last week. The backpressure readings were concerning during diagnostics. Given your experience, it seems I might also be looking at a full filter replacement rather than just cleaning. A second opinion from another workshop estimated around 1400 Euro for the full job. They also recommended replacing the pressure sensor while the system is open. Current mileage is 63526km and the symptoms keep getting worse despite attempting manual regeneration.

Thanks for the detailed update. Based on your mileage and symptoms, your situation mirrors mine almost exactly. The flashing engine light and failed regeneration attempts are clear indicators that simple cleaning might not cut it anymore. The workshop recommendation to replace both the diesel filter and pressure sensor is spot on, I regret not doing both in my first repair. The sensor fault returned after 6 months, forcing a second visit that could have been avoided. The 1400 Euro quote sounds fair, especially including the sensor. My total costs ended up higher at 1550 Euro because I needed the sensor replaced separately later. The backpressure readings you mentioned are concerning. When mine showed similar values, it meant the filter was severely clogged. Since the regeneration cycle failed, this confirms internal damage to the filter structure. A word of caution from my experience, delaying the replacement could lead to more expensive repairs if it affects other components. Once I got the new filter installed, the difference in performance was immediately noticeable. Fuel consumption improved by about 15% and the smoke issue disappeared completely. Consider following the mechanics advice about longer drives after the repair. Regular highway runs really do help maintain proper filter regeneration cycles.

I appreciate all the detailed feedback about the DPF issues. Given the symptoms and diagnostic results, I will proceed with the full replacement at 1400 Euro, including the pressure sensor. The failed regeneration attempts and matching sensor problems make it clear that cleaning alone wont solve this. My fuel efficiency has dropped even further this week, and the vehicle inspection results from 2500km ago already showed early warning signs. The mechanics advice about regular highway driving makes more sense now, I will definitely change my driving habits after the repair to prevent future diesel filter problems. Will schedule the repair next week before any additional damage occurs. The quick performance improvement and 15% better fuel consumption you experienced after replacement sounds promising. It seems worth the investment to prevent more expensive repairs down the line. Thanks for sharing your experience, it helped confirm that my workshop gave me solid advice with both the diagnosis and repair quote.